Southern Cornbread
Authentic Southern cornbread baked in a cast-iron skillet, boasting a wonderfully crispy, golden-brown bottom and a tender, crumbly interior. This recipe adheres to tradition by omitting sugar, allowing the natural sweetness of the cornmeal to shine.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1.5 cups Yellow cornmeal(Medium grind is preferred for texture.)
- 1/2 cup All-purpose flour
- 1.5 cups Buttermilk(Room temperature is ideal for better incorporation.)
- 2 Large eggs(Room temperature is ideal.)
- 1/4 cup Butter or bacon grease(Bacon grease adds a distinct savory flavor; ensure it's melted if solid.)
- 1 tsp Baking soda
- 1/2 tsp Salt(Enhances the flavors.)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Place a 10-inch cast-iron skillet into the oven. Add the 1/4 cup of butter or bacon grease to the skillet. Preheat the oven with the skillet inside to 425°F (220°C). Allow the skillet and fat to heat for at least 10 minutes until the fat is shimmering and very hot.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 2
While the skillet heats, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, baking soda, and salt in a large bowl until thoroughly combined. In a separate medium bowl, lightly beat the eggs, then whisk in the buttermilk until smooth.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 3
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir just until combined. Do not overmix; a few small lumps are acceptable. The batter should be thick but pourable.
⏱️ 1 minute - 4
Carefully remove the hot cast-iron skillet from the oven. The fat should be smoking slightly. Immediately pour the cornbread batter into the hot skillet. It will sizzle upon contact. Gently spread the batter evenly.
⏱️ 1 minute - 5
Return the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cornbread is deeply golden brown on top and the edges are set and beginning to pull away from the sides of the skillet. A wooden skewer inserted into the center should come out clean.
⏱️ 20-25 minutes - 6
Carefully remove the skillet from the oven. Let the cornbread cool in the skillet for a few minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack or serving directly from the skillet.
⏱️ 5 minutes
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓The key to a crispy bottom is a thoroughly preheated cast-iron skillet with hot fat. Don't skip this step!
- ✓Southern cornbread is traditionally unsweetened. The natural sweetness of the cornmeal is sufficient.
- ✓Rendered bacon grease imparts a wonderful savory depth that complements the cornmeal beautifully.
- ✓Ensure your baking soda is fresh for optimal leavening.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- For a touch of heat, stir in 1/4 cup of finely diced pickled jalapeños or fresh minced jalapeño into the batter before pouring into the skillet.
- For a sweeter, Northern-style cornbread, add 2-4 tablespoons of sugar to the dry ingredients.